Book Image

Causal Inference and Discovery in Python

By : Aleksander Molak
4.7 (9)
Book Image

Causal Inference and Discovery in Python

4.7 (9)
By: Aleksander Molak

Overview of this book

Causal methods present unique challenges compared to traditional machine learning and statistics. Learning causality can be challenging, but it offers distinct advantages that elude a purely statistical mindset. Causal Inference and Discovery in Python helps you unlock the potential of causality. You’ll start with basic motivations behind causal thinking and a comprehensive introduction to Pearlian causal concepts, such as structural causal models, interventions, counterfactuals, and more. Each concept is accompanied by a theoretical explanation and a set of practical exercises with Python code. Next, you’ll dive into the world of causal effect estimation, consistently progressing towards modern machine learning methods. Step-by-step, you’ll discover Python causal ecosystem and harness the power of cutting-edge algorithms. You’ll further explore the mechanics of how “causes leave traces” and compare the main families of causal discovery algorithms. The final chapter gives you a broad outlook into the future of causal AI where we examine challenges and opportunities and provide you with a comprehensive list of resources to learn more. By the end of this book, you will be able to build your own models for causal inference and discovery using statistical and machine learning techniques as well as perform basic project assessment.
Table of Contents (21 chapters)
1
Part 1: Causality – an Introduction
7
Part 2: Causal Inference
14
Part 3: Causal Discovery

Extra – counterfactual explanations

Imagine that you apply for a loan from your bank. You prepared well – you checked your credit score and other variables that could affect the bank’s decision. You’re pretty sure that your application will be approved.

On Wednesday morning, you see an email from your bank in your inbox. You’re extremely excited! You open the message, already celebrating and ready to welcome the success!

There’s a surprise in the email.

Your loan application has been rejected.

You call the bank. You ask questions. You want to understand why. At the end of the day, its decision impacts some of your most important plans!

The only response you get from the customer service representative is that you did not meet the criteria. “Which criteria?” you ask. You don’t get a satisfying answer.

You’d like to make sure that you meet the criteria the next time you re-apply, yet it seems that...